Roofs come in all sizes and shapes. Flat roofs are not the most traditional of roof shapes among family homes, but they are used for some second floor deck areas and are popular in urban areas. Flat roofs come with a different set of risks and benefits than sloped roofs, all of which should be considered before purchasing a home with a flat roof.
Ups and Downs
One of the reasons flat roofs are attractive is that they are easy to install and the roof materials to cover them are affordable. Because they lack pitch, or slope, a flat roof does not face the challenges of sloped roofs that require engineering efforts. Flat roofs also provide more useable space in the home, both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, a flat roof eliminates the extreme angles seen in sloped roofs; allowing for more all space and easier placement of structures like a fireplace. Outdoors, a flat roof can provide an area for decking or other types of outdoor living coverings.
Unfortunately, flat roofs do have their drawbacks. Unlike a sloped roof, flat roofs are more maintenance. Their lack pitch makes them prone to water runoff issues, which can lead to a greater need for roof repair or replacement. The life span of a flat roof can be much less than a sloped roof, unless special roof materials are used to ensure effective water drainage. Flat roofs also tend to accumulate more heat than a sloped roof. However, this can be avoided by the installation of a white roof system designed to reflect the sun’s UV rays and reduce heat absorption.
